Fake cops arrested by real Winnebago County cops

ROCKFORD — Two men charged with impersonating police officers were arrested Tuesday by Winnebago County Sheriff’s deputies.

The charges stem from several incidents starting about 10:30 p.m. on April 30 when a woman reported she was in the area of Harrison Avenue and Mulford Road when a dark colored Pontiac attempted to stop her vehicle. She said the vehicle was equipped with flashing red and blue lights on the inside of the front windshield.

The vehicle was occupied by two men. The woman did not believe they were police officers and continued to drive before pulling into a gas station. The Pontiac then fled the area.

The vehicle was later spotted twice by officers and on each occasion fled.

Winnebago County Sheriff’s detectives initiated an investigation, and the vehicle was located and impounded and two men were booked Tuesday into the Winnebago County Jail.

Earl E. Jones, 28, of Rockford, was charged with false personation of a peace officer, attempted false personation of a peace officer, and violation of the Cannabis Control Act.

Lawrence R. Jackson Jr., 22, of Rockford, was arrested on the same charges as well as fleeing to elude a peace officer. Bond for each has yet to be set.